NFL Mock Draft 2014: Bolts improve rush

Late season surge drops Chargers in order; CB can be had in second round

South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (7) makes a move to get to the ball past Central Florida tight end Justin Tukes during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013.(AP Photo/John Raoux)
— AP

South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (7) makes a move to get to the ball past Central Florida tight end Justin Tukes during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013.(AP Photo/John Raoux)
/ AP

There's still a lot up for grabs heading into the final week of the NFL's regular season.

Fans will know before kickoff Sunday, if the Chargers are still alive for the AFC's final playoff spot. The Dolphins and Ravens play early games.

Regardless, it's okay to shine a light on next season. Here at the U-T, we believe in multitasking.

A little mock drafting never hurt anyone.

The selection order below is not official but is based on the current won/loss records in the NFL and is adjusted weekly. Here's our updated first round of the 2014 NFL Mock Draft:.

ROUND ONE

1) Houston (2-13) — Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville, Jr.

Bridgewater is second in the nation in completion percentage (70.2), fifth in quarterback rating (169.7), 12th in passing yards (3,523) and 13th in passing touchdowns (28) against only four interceptions. This year's quarterback class is a thousand times better than last year's crop, but plays like this set Bridgewater apart. Top needs: QB, OT, S.

This pick belongs to the Rams because of the gift that keeps on giving: The Robert Griffin trade. St. Louis added Jake Long in free agency last offseason, but Matthews would be an upgrade over Rodger Saffold and Joseph Barksdale on the other side, and it's no guarantee Long can stay healthy. Top needs: S, WR, OL.

3) Jacksonville (4-11) — Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M, So.

Coach Gus Bradley has experience with short, charismatic quarterbacks, and I'm sure owner Shad Kahn would appreciate adding a showman like Johnny Football. Manziel's arm strength and accuracy improved during his sophomore season, and the eyes in the back of his head still maintain 20/20 vision. This pick could easily be Fresno State's Derek Carr, or either Central Florida's Blake Bortles or UCLA's Brett Hundley if they decide to declare. Top needs: QB, DE, OT.

4) Oakland (4-11) — Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina, Jr.

Is there a pattern of negative behavior forming? Sure. Driving 110 MPH is certainly reckless. Regardless, he's the best player in this draft. No question. Facing Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers twice a season makes this a no-brainer. Even the Raiders can't screw this up. Top needs: QB, WR, OT.

5) Cleveland (4-11) — Derek Carr, QB, Fresno St., Sr.

He certainly didn't help himself in the Bulldogs loss to USC in the Las Vegas Bowl, but you can't deny his prolific senior season: He finished the year with 5,083 passing yards, 50 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. A successful performance during Senior Bowl week will be vital for his draft stock. Top needs: QB, RB, OG.

6) Atlanta (4-11) — Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA, Sr.

Barr followed up his breakout junior season with 20 tackles-for-loss, the fifth-highest total in the nation. He added 10 sacks, 43 solo tackles, five forced fumbles and four fumbles recovered. Top needs: DE, OL, TE.